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******AT ATTENTION******
<Wanda> @@
<Pietro> @@
<Mystique> @@
<Reynard> @@
<Remy> @@
<Kurt> @@
<Catseye> @@
<Emma> @@

********SIM START********
<Erik> SCENE> WUNDAGORE. NORMALLY A QUIET, RESTFUL SCENE, TODAY THERE IS A FAINT UNDERCURRENT OF ANTICIPATION IN THE AIR… WANDA AND PIETRO KNOW THAT THE FIRST OF THE STAFF OF THEIR FATHER'S SCHOOL, A WOMAN NAMED MS. DARKHOLME, WHO THEY HAVE NEVER SEEN OR MET, IS DUE TO ARRIVE. HOW WILL THIS NEWCOMER CHANGE THE LIFE THEY HAVE GROWN ACCUSTOMED TO?
<Erik> SCENE2> AS THEY SIT AROUND THE SMALL, INFORMAL BREAKFAST TABLE, LADEN WITH FOOD BOVA LOVINGLY PREPARED, THEIR FATHER HAS BEEN MADDENINGLY SILENT, READING A FRENCH NEWSPAPER AND LARGELY IGNORING HIS FOOD. OUTSIDE AND IN THE COURTYARD, A LIGHT RAIN IS FALLING, AND WATER RUNS IN RIVULETS DOWN THE WINDOW PANES.
<Pietro> ::sits rather quietly at the breakfast table, every so often exchanging glances with Wanda:: ((How can I feel so awkward in my own home.... and with my own father above all else..)) ::jabs at his food with his fork::
<Erik> ::absorbed in the newspaper, turns the page, brow furrowing slightly as he reads::
<Wanda> ::She glances to her plate for a moment, then outside, staring for moments:: ((After all this time, there'll be another person here with us. I knew it was inevitable, but regardless.)) *ahem* ::Clearing her throat, she then takes a small bite of her muffin::
<Pietro> ::looks up from his concentrated glare at the coagulated form of gooey eggs:: ...So father, when is this Ms. Darkholme expected to arrive?
<Erik> ::folds the paper, creasing it neatly, and sets it aside:: She is due to arrive sometime this morning... she was not specific about the hour and minute.
<Wanda> You must have a past with her. ::speaks quietly::
<Erik> ::raises a brow:: I have spoken to her at some length...
<Wanda> ::nods stiffly:: I see.. ::her eyes wander over to his untouched plate:: Father, you really ought to eat.
<Pietro> ::watches his father and sister cautiously:: ((Wanda is uneasy about this... I don't blame her... ))
<Erik> ACTION> BOVA TAPS AT THE DOORFRAME, PEERING INTO THE BREAKFAST ROOM.
<Erik> Bova> Mr Lensherr, there's a car coming up the road…
<Wanda> ::glances up curiously, then makes brief eye contact with Pietro:: ((Pietro's awful quiet today. I guess he has a lot on his mind as well.))
<Pietro> ::watches his sister patiently before turning his head to Bova:: ((Here goes nothing..)) ::smiles broadly::
<Erik> ::stands, pushing his chair back:: Excellent... Come and meet Ms. Darkholme... ::turns and moves for the door::
<Wanda> ::follows behind her father, silent::
<Pietro> ::Stands slowly keeping eye-contact with Wanda, and following his father out of the dining hall towards the front entrance::
<Erik> ::moves through the castle, doors opening silently before him, until he stands at the front steps::
<Erik> ACTION> A BRIGHT RED ROADSTER IS VISIBLE SPEEDING UP THE NARROW LANE, TOWARD THE CASTLE. IT'S A WONDER IT'S MAKING THE MUDDY CURVES, AT THE RATE IT'S GOING.
<Pietro> ::stops directly behind and to the right of his father, arms crossed and waiting for the woman to appear::
<Erik> ACTION> THE CAR PULLS TO A STOP IN FRONT OF THE CASTLE, AND THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR OPENS. AN UMBRELLA UNFURLS, AND A RED-HEADED WOMAN WITH DARK BLUE SKIN STEPS OUT GRACEFULLY.
<Wanda> ::blinks, somewhat surprised by the stranger's appearance:: G-Good afternoon.
<Erik> ::glances at the car for a moment, then to Raven, nodding in greeting:: I see you were able to follow the map with no difficulties...
<Erik> ACTION> A MOMENT LATER, THE PASSENGER DOOR OPENS AS WELL, AND A YOUNG MAN EMERGES. HE IS EVEN DARKER A BLUE THAN THE WOMAN, AND IT'S HARD TO DISTINGUISH ANY FEATURES SAVE FOR YELLOW EYES.
<Mystique> ::glances about studying the castle before her in a carefully calculated sense:: ((Looks adequately defensible...could use adjustments...))
<Wanda> (( Two? I thought Ms Darkholme was the only guest, for now.)) ::looks to the young man for a moment, and smiles:: And good afternoon to you, as well.
<Pietro> ::analyzes the two smiling broadly:: ((Blue....)) ::shrugs and waits for the two to finish their introductions with his father before greeting them with a handshake::
<Kurt> ::softly closes the passenger side door, looking to Wanda and the others with apprehension, staying silent::
<Mystique> ::turns to regard Erik and lowers the sunglasses perched upon her nose:: I know my way around Eastern Europe like the back of my own hand...but the map was appreciated.
<Erik> ::raises a brow at the second newcomer, masking a flicker of surprise:: ((She did not say anything about..)) Raven, who is your... ::questioning pause::
<Wanda> ::shrugs her shoulders to Pietro::
<Mystique> ::continues to look straight at Erik:: This is Kurt Wagner...he is my protégé and will be enrolling in your school.
<Kurt> ::his tail lightly curls around his ankles:: ..Ah.. guten tag. ((I already have a bad feeling about this.))
<Pietro> ((At least we will have someone our own age to talk to....)) ::steps forward extending his hand:: Hello Kurt, I am Pietro, and this is my sister Wanda...
<Erik> ((Protégé?)) ::slowly turns to Kurt, and extends a hand:: Guten Tag... I am Erik Lensherr... ::pauses and nods slightly when Pietro introduces himself and his sister::
<Wanda> ::simply nods her head, almost identically to Erik's own:: ((He looks just like her, with the skin tone. Maybe a sibling?))
<Kurt> ::..looks from Pietro to Erik, slightly wide-eyed, then slowly shakes both their hands::
<Mystique> ::glances at Wanda and Pietro and then returns her gaze to Erik studying him:: ((Irene's sketches did not do the man justice...))
<Erik> I assume you both have luggage..? Pietro, if you would like to show Mr Wagner up to a room.. the one next to yours, perhaps?
<Pietro> ::nods:: Sure thing... Kurt, would you follow me? ::pauses slightly almost forgetting not to run, but instead walk back towards the house and head through the grand entrance and up the stairs::
<Wanda> ::rests her hands on her hips, and watches her father a moment::
<Kurt> ::trails after Pietro, hesitantly::
<Erik> ::extends a hand to Mystique, eyebrow still quirked, and speaks in a low tone:: You neglected to mention a ..protégé.
<Pietro> ::looks back making sure the blue fuzzy guy is following and trying to make conversation:: So Kurt, where are you from?
<Mystique> ::takes Erik's hand and smiles lightly:: It must have...slipped my mind...but this is a school is it not? So there should not be any problems?
<Wanda> ((She seems rather cold..)) ::brushes through her hair absently:: ((And Kurt seems rather shy. I wonder about the two of them.)) ::studies Mystique::
<Erik> No. ::ever-so-slightly clipped tone, with a smile:: No problem whatsoever. Now, if you'll come with me, I have a few matters to discuss.
<Kurt> ..I am from Germany originally.. though I have traveled much. ::pretty much not looking at Pietro as he talks::
<Mystique> Certainly, I am eager to get to work...with so little time being left and all... ::side glances to Wanda:: Be a dear and carry my bad inside?
<Pietro> ((Should have known with a last name such as Wagner...)) ::nods and smiles reaching the top of the stairs and beginning walking down the hallway towards the men's dormitories::
<Wanda> ::nods slowly:: I'll place them in your room. ::casts a questioning glance to Erik for a split second, then picking up the bags and slowly walking inside::
<Erik> ::eyes narrow slightly, and he starts to motion toward the bag, then stops when Wanda picks them up:: ((I will not have her treating my daughter as a servant...)) That is hardly necessary..
<Kurt> ::glancing around curiously at the surroundings::
<Pietro> ::reaches the room next to his own, and opens the door, stepping inside:: Alright, we're here ::smiles turning around to look at Kurt:: Its nothing big, but it's pretty home...
<Mystique> ::lightly touches Erik's arm:: If we may...I would like a tour of the faciliies as soon as possible. Luggage is hardly a pressing matter at this moment.
<Wanda> It's alright, Father. We should make our new guests feel as welcome as possible. ::she leans over and kisses his cheek:: Let me know when I'm needed. ::slips inside and starts towards Mystique's room::
<Kurt> ::steps inside after Pietro, looking around the room:: It will be fine, danke.
<Erik> ACTION> KURT'S ROOM IS SPACIOUS.. THERE ARE TWO BEDS, TWO DRESSERS, TWO DESKS, ETC, ALTHOUGH IT IS OBVIOUSLY NOT OCCUPIED AS OF YET
<Pietro> ::nods:: And I'm right next door if you need anything don't feel shy to just ask..
<Erik> Unfortunately, I believe there is a matter somewhat more pressing than a tour, Raven. Have you been following the news, in Paris?
<Mystique> ((That's what children are for...to carry things...all this over protectiveness is going to be damned annoying...)) I did not read the paper this morning...it was a long car trip.
<Pietro> ...Not to seem forward, but I was wondering... What sort of powers have you been gifted with? ::Arches a brow:: ((I hope it just isn't his blue appearance..))
<Wanda> ((I don't care much for her touching him though.)) ::frowns a little, and places the bags down on the bed::
<Kurt> ((Ask? That is the last thing I will do...)) Let me show you. ::stands still for a moment, then 'ports to the space between the beds::
<Erik> The last few weeks, that is... there have been unusual reports of arson... explosives, perhaps... all over the city. I believe it may be a mutant.
<Pietro> ::blinks:: Wow... That's really cool! I've got somewhat of a similar power ::Grins:: Want something to drink? ::darts out of the room and into the kitchen, grabs a bottle of water, and darts back into the room with the water in hand, offering it to Kurt:: I'm sure you are thirsty after your trip...
<Erik> ACTION> PIETRO GETS A WHIFF OF A REALLY... DISTINCT, ACRID SMELL IN THE AIR
<Mystique> What leads you to believe this? Explosions are hardly just a mutant phenomenon. There are over 300 military grade explosives...not to mention more crude variations using commercial chemicals.
<Kurt> ::blinks, staring at him in surprise:: ..Uh, danke?.. ::reaches out to take the water bottle::
<Wanda> ::heads out of the room, and strides down the hallway, towards the main room:: ((Perhaps more reading will calm my thoughts.))
<Erik> Explosions, with no sign of explosives? No chemical residue? I find that difficult to believe, in at least 8 recorded cases.
<Pietro> ::sniffs the air:: ((Perhaps he has not showered in a few days....)) ::shrugs his shoulders shaking off his current train of thought:: Come on, I will give you a tour of the place.. Unless you would rather stay here? ::arches a brow::
<Kurt> Ja, I could use a tour.. ::moves to follow Pietro, tail lashing a bit::
<Mystique> I take it you wish to check the reports out. What is our first move then? ::starts walking towards the Castle:: ((I'd like to at least set foot inside the damned structure before jetting off again...))
<Pietro> ::nods and starts walking around the upstairs first, heading towards the girls dorms, with a wide grin:: Once some more female students arrive, this will be beneficial to your knowledge... this is the female dormitories..
<Wanda> ::takes a seat in one of the chairs, and picks up her book off the counter from which it was lying::
<Kurt> ::snorts, speaking a bit sarcastically:: I see. Very beneficial.
<Erik> ::moves toward the door:: I suggest you keep your bags packed. We will be leaving for Paris, tomorrow morning. I will show you your office... and you should be introduced to Bova...
<Pietro> ::chuckles momentarily before walking back around showing the rest of the upstairs and then heading down to the main level::
<Wanda> ::flips open the book, and begins to read it:: ((I wonder..))
<Mystique> ::steps up to the front door:: Mr. Lensherr...Erik...I feel as if I know so much about you already, but what do you know of me? Are you aware of my own mutant abilities?
<Kurt> ::continues following Pietro, taking in the surroundings, speaking very little::
<Erik> ::opens the door with a gesture:: Shapeshifting, as I understand it. I would assume, thus, that this is your natural form?
<Pietro> ::Walks around the 1st floor, taking Kurt through the different rooms including solarium, living room, kitchen, dining hall, classrooms, and courtyard::
<Wanda> ::yawns, and rests her head against the arm of the chair::
<Mystique> It is the one I prefer... ::enters through the opened door and turns to face Erik transforming her own body into an exact copy of his own:: You have a charming appearance, Erik... ::lightly touches her own transformed face::
<Pietro> ::finishes the tour:: That about covers the grand tour... You will get used to it I'm sure... It's a bit confusing at first but it'll sooner or later feel like home..
<Kurt> ::with a slight shake of his head:: It has been a long time since anywhere has felt like 'home'..
<Erik> ::raises a brow at Raven:: ..This, as you can see, is the entry hall...
<Pietro> ...Well hopefully your luck will change around here ::smiles::
<Kurt> ::gives Pietro a doubtful look, but doesn't say anything more::
<Mystique> ::twirls to stroll inside the entry hall dissolving her shape back to her template form but remains silent as she studies the surroundings in detail::
<Erik> ::turns down the west hall, pausing in front of the LR:: Wanda, if you could tell your brother and Mr Wagner that all of you are free to accompany us to Paris, tomorrow..? We will be leaving in the morning.
<Wanda> ::peers up from her book, and smiles lightly:: Of course, Father.

********INTERLUDE********
<Erik> SCENE> AN ALLEY BEHIND A SMALL ITALIAN CAFE. EVERY NIGHT, THEY DUMP THE LEFTOVERS AND TRASH INTO THE DUMPSTER… NATURALLY, THE STRAY CATS OF THE AREA FLOCK TO THIS ALLEY AS SOON AS THE BACK DOOR OF THE RESTAURANT CLOSES. FIVE CATS HAVE JUST SCURRIED OUT OF THE SHADOWS, WHICH IS HARDLY UNUSUAL, SAVE FOR THE COLORATION OF ONE, AN ODD PURPLISH GRAY.
<Erik> ACTION> THE ONE WHO THINKS OF HERSELF, IN A WAY, AS CATSEYE, HAS COME HERE OFTEN, WITH HER 'MOTHER', A SKINNY, FLEABITTEN BLACK-AND-WHITE CREATURE WHO HAS LIVED ON THE STREETS HER WHOLE LIFE. TODAY, THE FEAST IS ESPECIALLY PLENTIFUL, AND NO SQUABBLES HAVE BROKEN OUT AMONG THE FIVE CATS WHO GULP DOWN MEAT SAUCE AND GREASY PASTA.
<Catseye> ::walks around the pasta sniffing it before taking a bite::
<Erik> ACTION> CATSEYE REALIZES THE OTHER CATS HAVE GONE STILL, STARING WITH LUMINOUS EYES TOWARD THE LIT STREET.
<Catseye> ::looks at the others:: ..? ::turns to look at what they're watching::
<Erik> ACTION> A TALL SILHOUETTED FIGURE STANDS IN THE ALLEY, A HUMAN… MAKING NO MOVE, BUT SEEMING TO WATCH THEM. A COUPLE OF THE MORE NERVOUS CATS SCRAMBLE AWAY, DISAPPEARING BEHIND CRATES AND AROUND CORNERS.
<Catseye> ::looks up at the figure:: mrow? ::walks a little closer::
<Erik> ACTION> THE HUMAN MOVES TOWARD THEM, CASUALLY. THE BLACK-AND-WHITE CAT HISSES, FLATTENING HER EARS AS SHE HUNCHES OVER A HALF-EATEN MEATBALL.
<Catseye> ::glances back at the sound, tilting her head:: ... ((momma?)) ::moves between the figure and her "mom", her ears also moving back a bit::
<Erik> ACTION> THE HUMAN STRETCHES A HAND OUT... BUT HE ISN'T BENT LOW, LIKE CHILDREN ARE WHEN THEY SOMETIMES TRY TO PET THE STRAYS... HE IS SIMPLY STANDING AND LOOKING TOWARD THEM. CATSEYE FEELS HER FUR PRICKLE.
<Catseye> ((not like)) ::pushes her ears back farther and hisses at the figure:: ((go away!)) ::moves towards the man, growling lowly::
<Erik> ACTION> A SUDDEN, TOO-BRIGHT LIGHT FLASHES AROUND THEM, AND CATSEYE IS DIMLY AWARE OF THE SMELL OF OZONE AND A DULL PAIN IN HER SIDE, BEFORE EVERYTHING FADES TO BLACK….
<Erik> ACTION> THE MAN, DARK HAIRED AND SALLOW-SKINNED, SMILES VERY SLIGHTLY AS HE LOOKS DOWN AT THE TWO CATS. HE KICKS THE BLACK-AND-WHITE ONE OUT OF THE WAY, CASUALLY, AND BENDS DOWN, SCOOPING THE PURPLISH CAT INTO A SORT OF CARRYING CASE.
<Erik> ACTION> THE MAN LIFTS THE CASE IN ONE HAND, TURNING AND LEAVING THE DIRTY ALLEY WITHOUT A BACKWARDS GLANCE.
*****END INTERLUDE******

<Erik> SCENE> PARIS. LATE AT NIGHT. ONE DAY LATER. THEY HAVE TRAVELED MOST OF THE DAY TO GET TO PARIS, AND THEY ARE WALKING DOWN THE STREET ON THEIR WAY TO A HOTEL-KURT BUNDLED UP IN A SCARF, HAT, AND OVERCOAT TO AVOID NOTICE.
<Wanda> ::follows alongside her father, now closer to him, as to keep Mystique away, and is silent::
<Erik> ACTION> THEY WALK PAST A CLOSED NEWSSTAND... SOME OF THE PAPERS ARE STILL VISIBLE, AND ERIK STOPS, STUDYING THE HEADLINES.
<Kurt> ::his hat is pulled low over his face, the very tip of his tail sticking out from under the overcoat:: ((The first 'field trip'..))
<Mystique> ::in the form of a woman wearing a navy business dress, early thirties with jet black hair pulled into a bun and a pair of wire rimmed spectacles on her nose::
<Erik> ::frowns, looking down the street:: As I thought...
<Wanda> ::glances over to him curiously:: What is it?
<Pietro> ::arches a brow following his fathers line of site towards the newspaper::
<Mystique> ::fingers the pistol holstered inside her coat:: Problems?
<Kurt> ::pauses, looking towards the others::
<Erik> They have apprehended a suspect... Allegedly he resisted arrest by blowing up a parked car, but was caught... the press is already labelling him a mutant... ::brow furrowed:: Raven, do you know where the 12th precinct police station is?
<Pietro> ::blinks:: ...I suppose I could find it rather quickly if Ms. Darkholme is not familiar....
<Mystique> Certainly...I've had my run ins with the law here in France. If we want to get to this alleged mutant...we will require some discretion.
<Wanda> ((I'm not sure I like where this is going..)) ::her facial expression echoes her thoughts::
<Erik> Of course, but we may also require haste... if this suspect is in fact a mutant, he may be treated.. less than favorably by the law, while in their custody.
<Kurt> ::a bit of a concerned tone:: ..What are you intending to do, Herr Lensherr..?
<Mystique> ::steps to the curb side and holds out her hand to signal a taxi:: The precinct is about fifteen blocks from here...
<Erik> I should like to get in to have a word with this man... ::glances to Raven:: I assume you can masquerade believably as an official who can see that that happens?
<Erik> ACTION> A TAXI PULLS TO THE CURB.
<Pietro> ::looks uncomfortably to the taxi:: ((I could find this place before this car could even make it halfway there...))
<Erik> ::glances to Pietro, motioning down the street:: We will meet you there... do not draw attention to yourself. ::sits in the front passenger seat of the taxi::
<Mystique> ::opens the cab door and climbs inside:: ((An official, hmmm...))
<Wanda> ::takes a seat in the back, folding her arms as she sits down and glancing outside::
<Kurt> ::piles in the taxi after them, closing the door, moving his tail a bit before taking a seat::
<Pietro> ::grins:: Thank you father... ::waits for the taxi to pull away so the driver doesn't notice him suddenly disappearing::
<Erik> ACTION> THE TAXI, NOT A LARGE CAR, IS A RATHER CRAMPED FIT IN THE BACK SEAT WITH KURT, WANDA, AND MYSTIQUE AT ONCE. THEY PULL AWAY FROM THE CURB, AS ERIK GIVES THE DRIVER THE DIRECTIONS.
<Pietro> ::takes off in a dash up and down several streets searching for the 12th precinct::
<Erik> ACTION> PIETRO LOCATES IT WITHIN LESS THAN A MINUTE.. THERE SEEMS TO BE SOMETHING OF A COMMOTION GOING ON INSIDE.
<Kurt> ::squirms slightly before sitting as close to the door as possible::
<Pietro> ::stands outside waiting for the cab, taking in as much as he can from what's going on::
<Erik> ACTION> THE TAXI STOPS IN FRONT OF THE PRECINCT. A SPLIT SECOND LATER, THE FRONT DOORS BLOW OUT, LITERALLY, AS WHAT SEEMS TO BE AN OFFICE CHAIR HITS THEM AND EXPLODES, SCATTERING PIECES ALL OVER THE STREET.
<Pietro> ::blinks and shields himself from the blast::
<Mystique> ::eyes widen as she stares out the taxi car window:: Maybe we arrived just in time...
<Wanda> ::throws her hands over her face and shrieks::
<Remy> Was nice meetin' ya, chief! ::tries to salute, still cuffed, continues trying to work his was out as he runs out what was the front door::
<Erik> ACTION> THE REAR DOORS OF THE TAXI SWING OPEN, COURTESY OF ERIK, AS HE JUMPS OUT OF THE CAR
<Kurt> ::winces slightly at the shriek in his ear, then quickly stumbles outside::
<Pietro> ::looks around for the source of the blast:: ((Looks like we've found our target....))
<Remy> ::looks for the nearest alleyway and moves to duck into it::
<Erik> ACTION> REMY VERY NEARLY RUNS INTO PIETRO... PIETRO GETS A CLEAR VIEW OF GLOWING RED EYES BEFORE THE YOUNG MAN BOLTS FOR THE ALLEY
<Mystique> ::steps out of cab crouching low and drawing her sidearm:: ((Is this man insane?))
<Pietro> ::blinks:: ..Hey Wait! ::dashes trying to get in front of Remy:: Hey, wait up... I'm not one of them...
<Remy> Sorry 'bout dat, cap! ::continues into the alley::
<Remy> Whoa! ::tries to stop from bowling into Pietro::
<Mystique> ::stands, backwards glance to see what Erik is doing, and dashes after Pietro and the fleeing suspect::
<Erik> Do not injure the boy, Raven! ::walks toward the alley, cautiously::
<Wanda> ::slips out after making sure she's alright, then following after Erik:: ((I hope Pietro'll be alright..))
<Mystique> ((A bullet to the knee cap is nothing serious...and very much needed it seems))
<Pietro> Just relax.... You need help, and we can help you... ::stares into the mysteriously red eyes:: As you can see I'm like you....
<Erik> ACTION> ANGRY POLICEMEN BOIL OUT OF THE PRECINCT BUILDING, SHOUTING, OBVIOUSLY LOOKING FOR THE ESCAPEE
<Wanda> Who was that, Father? ::looks to him as they continue down the alley::
<Erik> ::hurries the last few steps into the dead-end alley to avoid being seen:: Onto the fire escape, now. All of you. ::steady look at Remy::
<Mystique> ::stops suddenly after hearing the forming mob of police:: I'll buy you time, perhaps a rendezvous later at Emile's Bookstore? ::morphs into the guise of Remy::
<Remy> Non', 'ready tol' de church dat I ain' interested in de're help. I'm also kinda in de middle of sumt'in.. so if y'd 'scuse me. ::moves around Pietro and starts to run further down the alley, looking for some door, ladder anything::
<Erik> ::nods to Mystique:: Be careful.
<Remy> ::hears Magneto, jumps up to the fire escape and starts to run up::
<Wanda> ::does as she's told, although somewhat reluctantly:: ((This is so strange..))
<Mystique> Always! ::dashes out into the street stopping momentarily to make sure the cops spot her and then makes her flight from the scene in the opposite direction away form the alley::
<Pietro> ::looks to Erik:: Father... but he's getting away...
<Pietro> ::sighs and obliges moving to get on the fire escape::
<Erik> ACTION> THE METAL OF THE FIRE ESCAPE BEGINS TO TWIST UPWARDS, ELEVATING THEM TO THE ROOF. ERIK FOLLOWS A MOMENT BEHIND, LANDING ON THE ROOF SOUNDLESSLY. IN THE STREET BELOW, THE OFFICERS TAKE THE BAIT AND CHASE OFF AFTER MYSTIQUE
<Wanda> ::glances about:: That worked surprisingly well. ::leans over to catch her breath::
<Erik> ACTION> REMY GETS THE CUFFS OFF
<Erik> ::raises his hands, non-threateningly:: I wish to speak to you...
<Pietro> ::looks to Remy as if saying 'I told you so'::
<Mystique> ::running along, weaves between a series of parked cars heading towards a nearby park shen knows of:: ((I seriously doubt they will be able to match my running speed...but the work out is welcome.))
<Remy> ::puts the cuffs in his pocket, just in case he might need them later:: Alrighty.. ::starts to move to the next rooftop...stops as Erik speaks:: Eh.. ::sighs:: If y' didn' notice, dere's a whole buncha cops after me. How 'bout y' leave a message with my sec'etary?
<Erik> ACTION> MYSTIQUE LOSES THE POLICEMEN FAIRLY QUICKLY, THEIR SHOUTS FADING BEHIND HER.
<Wanda> That situation has been handled already... Thanks to us. ::places her hands on her hips::
<Erik> The police are no longer a problem, for the moment. I believe you must be the suspect in the arson cases, then?
<Remy> ..::eyes narrow:: I didn' do nuttin'
<Mystique> ::slows down and ducks into a nearby phonebooth switching forms into a woman, long blonde hair and wearing a grey over coat::
<Wanda> ::walks over to Pietro, and places her hand on his shoulder:: Are you alright?
<Erik> I am not here to accuse you... might I have a name to address you by? ::extends a hand:: I am Erik Lensherr, and I believe I can help you.
<Pietro> ::looks to Wanda:: Yeah, I'm fine.... are you alright?
<Kurt> ::standing in a slight crouch to the side, looking at Remy a bit curiously::
<Mystique> ::glances up towards the city skyline:: ((I do hope the ruse proved fruitful...at least for Erik and Kurt's sake...ah, and now to visit Emile's...I do hope he has found those books I asked for months ago.)) ::casually strolls along the sidewalk::
<Remy> ::looks at Erik's hand, doesn't shake it:: De name's Remy, chief. I don' need no help. Been doin' jus' fine on my own.
<Remy> ::folds his arms on his chest::
<Erik> ::raises a brow at Remy:: Ah... you mean to say, perhaps those explosions are intentional?
<Wanda> ::nods:: Out of breath is all. ::tilts her head towards Remy:: He didn't hurt you at all, did he?
<Remy> ..Perhaps
<Pietro> ::grins:: Nah, we were just about to start getting along ::in a whisper to Wanda::
<Erik> Perhaps I do not entirely believe you.. Monsieur Remy. As you can see... we are like you.. ::slight gesture around the little group:: ..mutants.
<Wanda> ::nods to him, then eyeing Remy for a moment:: Awful lot of mysterious types about. Wonder if it's a prerequisite for being a mutant.
<Remy> ::looks a little antsy, taps his foot, as he looks over the others:: So wut, y' gon' help me so I can help y' take over de humans like dat 'Pocalypse homme?
<Kurt> ::looks at the edge of the roof, frowning slightly:: ((Raven is surely fine.. she can handle herself..))
<Remy> I ain't int'rested
<Erik> Hardly... ::tight smile:: I oppose the philosophy his broadcasts have been expounding... on every level. I run a school, Monsieur Remy. A school for mutants, like yourself, to learn to control their powers, in an environment that will not hound them and hunt them down.
<Remy> an' what d' you want outta me?
<Erik> ACTION> A HANDFUL OF DISHEARTENED LOOKING OFFICERS JOG PAST RAVEN... ONE OF THEM STOPS AND BREATHLESSLY ASKS HER IF SHE'S SEEN ANYONE FLEE PAST?
<Wanda> Perhaps someone should check on Ms Darkholme.. ::speaks loud enough to be overheard::
<Mystique> ::blinks at the officer:: [[A man was running that...]] ::points in the opposite direction:: [[but I did not think any thing of it.]]
<Erik> I want you to attend my school. Right now, your abilities are a danger to yourself and those around you... with training, you may never have to worry about incidents like this, again.
<Erik> ACTION> THE OFFICERS SHOUT AT EACH OTHER IN IRRITATION FOR A FEW MOMENTS, BEFORE TURNING AND HEADING IN THE WAY SHE POINTED
<Pietro> ::listens intently to his father, eyeing Remy cautiously::
<Kurt> ::looking to Wanda:: ..She.. probably wouldn't appreciate being checked on, fraulein..
<Mystique> ::continues on her way to the appointed rendezvous spot:: ((Humanity has always been rather dim.))
<Remy> ::looks to be thinking over the proposition:: ((Mebbe he could help.. but I dunno.. Gotta get back t' Belle... can't go back now though..))
<Erik> Perhaps you would like to discuss this at greater length in more comfortable surrounds...? ::moves to the edge of the roof, looking down at the now empty street::
<Remy> ::nods his head, absently:: Yah.
<Erik> Then come with us, for now... ::motions to the twisted fire-escape::
<Wanda> ::shrugs her shoulders:: Alright.
<Erik> ::steps onto the fire escape, waiting for the others to join him::
<Remy> ::steps onto the fire escape.. looking a little wary..::
<Pietro> ::walks over standing on the fire-escape as well::
<Erik> ACTION> AFTER EVERYONE GETS ONTO THE FIRE ESCAPE, IT SLOWLY UNBENDS, COMING BACK DOWN TO THE ALLEY.

********EPILOGUE*********
<Erik> SCENE> A CITY STREET, LATE AFTERNOON. A WELL-DRESSED BUSINESSMAN JUST WALKED OUT OF A CORPORATE HIGH-RISE… EMMA HAS BEEN TAILING HIM FOR A FEW NIGHTS NOW, HOPING TO CATCH SOME NEWS OR MENTION OF THE LATEST TAKE-OVER, THAT COULD GIVE A WOULD-BE TRADER AN INSIDE EDGE.
<Emma> ::Coolly follows him, wearing a white, black pin striped, business dress that's a fit cut on her.::
<Erik> ACTION> THE MAN STOPS AT HIS USUAL COFFEE-STAND, ORDERING HIS USUAL MOCHA LATTE WITH EXTRA WHIPPED CREAM, AND CHATTING BRIEFLY WITH THE WAITRESS.
<Emma> ::She slows down her pace to stop by the newspaper stands and quickly buys a wall street journal before heading into the coffee shop. Slipping into a seat. Her pale blue eyes focuses on the man as she 'reads' her paper.:: ((Let's see if I can get something out of him this time..))
<Erik> ACTION> EMMA PICKS UP ON THE MAN'S ATTRACTION TO THE GIRL.. VAGUE THOUGHTS OF HIS WIFE SKIM THROUGH THE BACKGROUND... A SUDDEN SHIFT TO A YACHTING TRIP HE PLANS TO TAKE NEXT WEEKEND...
<Emma> ::Eyes narrow.:: ((You bastard, you just can't sit there with out thinking of yachting with the market so skewed.)) ::She tries to probe into the unconious.::
<Erik> ACTION> EMMA GETS A SUDDEN SENSATION THAT SOMEONE IS WATCHING HER... SHE LOSES HER FOCUS AND THE MAN'S MIND RETURNS TO AN IMPENETRABLE MURMUR, MADDENINGLY *JUST* OUT OF HER SENSES REACH
<Emma> ::She let's out a soft hiss as she looks around, assuming it's just a waitress or waiter for her order.::
<Erik> ACTION> EMMA CAN SEE NO EYES UPON HER... BUT THE VAGUELY THREATENING SENSATION DOESN'T GO AWAY
<Emma> ((Mmm...)) ::She coughs slightly, glancing around for someone to take her order.:: ((Funny, and there's nothing for me to be paranoid about.))
<Erik> <Waitress> ::comes up to Emma, with a bored look and a somewhat coffee-stained apron, snapping her gum:: Whaddya want?
<Emma> ((And I'm supposed to believe New York is the capitol of World Culture.)) ::Rolls her eyes as she glances at the waitress.:: Black coffee, extra sugar.
<Erik> <Waitress> ::pops her gum again:: Aight. ::wanders back to the counter, returning in a few moments with a black coffee and a couple packs of sugar::
<Emma> ::She sighs and quickly empties the sugar into the coffee, glancing to see if her latest victim is still near by.::
<Erik> ACTION> THE MAN IS ABOUT TO HEAD OUT THE DOOR ONCE MORE, HAVING ACQUIRED A NEWSPAPER BUNDLED UNDER ONE ARM... HE DRAINS THE LAST OF HIS COFFEE AND STICKS THE CUP IN THE TRASH
<Emma> ::Leaves two dollars on the table to pay for the coffee and tip and sips her drink as she waits for him to leave.:: ((Wait a moment... should I go after him? During that short period he wasn't suspicious of me.))
<Erik> ACTION> SHE CATCHES A STRAY THOUGHT FROM HER TARGET, ONCE MORE... THIS ONE HAS A VAGUELY TRIUMPHANT FLAVOR. HE'S THINKING ABOUT SUCCESS, OF SOME SORT..
<Emma> ::She almost runs to catch up with the man, now. However her cool stride does not lose it's grace.::
<Erik> ACTION> AS THE MAN ROUNDS A CORNER, AND EMMA FOLLOWS, SHE CATCHES SIGHT OF A FIGURE IN HER PERIPHERAL VISION, CLOSE BEHIND HER. A SPLIT SECOND-LATER, SOMETHING COLD TOUCHES THE BACK OF HER NECK, AND SHE FEELS WOOZY.
<Emma> ::She shakes her head and turns around, to see who's touching her, raising her arms to strike against the figure.::
<Erik> ACTION> SHE FEELS STRANGELY DIZZY AND HEAVY... THE SCENE AROUND HER HAS BECOME A SWIRLING BLUR OF COLOR AND NOISE, AND SHE IS ONLY VAGUELY AWARE OF BEING BODILY LIFTED INTO THE BACK OF A CAR, BEFORE SHE LOSES CONSCIOUSNESS.
******END EPILOGUE******

*********SIM END*********